Assistant Professor, Biology

Assistant Professor Position in Vertebrate Ecology

The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor position starting in August 2027. We are searching for a broadly trained vertebrate ecologist. Experience in the areas of form and function, and quantitative or computational methods would be viewed favorably. Teaching responsibilities will include major courses in organismal biology including those in the applicant's specialty (e.g., ornithology, ichthyology, mammalogy, functional morphology, comparative vertebrate anatomy, etc.), as well as introductory classes in ecology and evolution, biostatistics, an occasional senior Capstone, and Core Curriculum courses for non-majors.

For this position, the typical teaching load is 9 credit hours (two laboratory courses) per semester, which is approximately 12 contact hours per semester.

Applicants should have:

Candidates must have a PhD by the time of appointment in biology, or a closely related field. The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated commitment to evidence-based and engaged-learning pedagogies as well as a commitment to building an inclusive classroom environment for an increasingly diverse student body. We value candidates who share our commitment to engagement and inclusion of students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.

Successful candidates will be expected to sustain a research program involving undergraduates. Butler has an established undergraduate research program supported by institutional funds, including internal research funds and equipment funds, the Butler Summer Institute to support summer student research, and the annual Undergraduate Research Conference. There are also funds available to support faculty and student travel to conferences. Start-up funds are available for this position.

To apply, applicants should submit the following:

• a cover letter discussing qualifications for and interest in the position. Please include your previous experience with and commitment to inclusive and evidence-based pedagogy.
• a CV
• a statement of teaching interests that highlights strategies for inclusive and evidence-based pedagogies
• a statement of research interests with plans for a program of research involving undergraduate students
• transcripts of graduate work or other evidence of terminal degree(s) (unofficial is acceptable for candidate review)
• a list of 3 professional references, including name, title, and contact information

The cover letter and CV can be uploaded individually. All other materials should be submitted as a single PDF. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide three letters of recommendation. Finalists will be required to submit official transcripts and to undergo a background check.

Evaluation of applications will begin immediately upon receipt, and preference will be given to those received by October 9, 2026.

Why the Butler University Department of Biological Sciences?

The Department of Biological Sciences at Butler University is a collaborative department made up of approximately 20 full, associate and assistant professors, lecturers and staff with a variety of interests and backgrounds. The department is housed in Butler's new Science Complex. Resources include but are not limited to a state-of-the-art microscopy suite with a spinning disk confocal microscope and research grade fluorescent microscopes, quantitative PCR equipment, a brand-new vivarium, growth chambers, a greenhouse, a newly renovated herbarium, a 3-acre demonstration prairie, and proximity to other natural areas, computing resources, and fully mediated classrooms for teaching.

Butler University is a private, nationally recognized comprehensive university encompassing seven colleges: Arts, Business, Communication, Education, Liberal Arts & Sciences, Pharmacy & Health Sciences and Founder's College. Approximately 4,500 undergraduate and 1,000 graduate and doctoral students are enrolled at Butler, representing 46 states and 24 countries. Join us at the crossroads of tradition & transformation. A career at Butler University offers more than just a job—it's an opportunity to join a dedicated, innovative, and supportive community grounded in equity, academic excellence, and meaningful impact. Aligned with Boldly Butler, our strategic plan, faculty and staff play a vital role in delivering transformational learning experiences, enriching our campus and community, and ensuring a thriving Butler for generations to come. Butler University is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of age, sex, race, religion, color, disability, protected veteran status, national origin, or any other legally protected category.

Job Identification 2114

Job Category Faculty

Locations 751 W 46th St, Indianapolis, IN, 46208, US